KVPR - Podcast Details

Shows

Central Valley DailyJuly 11: In A Small Fresno County Town, The Stars In The Night Sky Steal The ShowSo-called star parties usually take place where there is little light pollution. But on a recent breezy night, a group set up massive telescopes in the small Fresno County town of Kerman. KVPR’s Samantha Rangel was there to witness the star-struck residents who got a glimpse at what’s beyond the night sky. Plus, the latest news headlines: A war of words continues over California’s high speed rail; and a major health clinic for veterans gets the green light in Bakersfield.2025-07-1113 min

Central Valley DailyJune 30: How Doulas Are Filling A Critical Gap In Maternal HealthcareExpectant mothers in Mariposa County often have to drive close an hour to the nearest hospital. In this maternal healthcare desert, doulas are helping fill a critical need for families. KVPR’s Rachel Livinal brings us more on how this support system is growing in the Sierra Nevada foothills.2025-06-3011 min

Central Valley DailyJune 25: Public Media Funding Is At Risk Of Major Cuts. What That Means For KVPRReducing government spending has been a hallmark of President Trump’s second term in office. On today’s episode, KVPR President and General Manager Joe Moore discusses what the station stands to lose if funding cuts are approved against the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Plus, the latest news headlines: A state bill seeks to protect doctors who prescribe abortion medication; and Fresno County goes after illegal dog and cat breeders.2025-06-2514 min

Central Valley DailyJune 23: As Deportations Continue, Will Workers Show Up To Harvest California's Crops?Central California is home to the nation's biggest agricultural economy, and farmers worry that the fear of immigration raids could lead to labor shortages as the harvest season arrives. KVPR's Joshua Yeager brings us a report on the concerns.2025-06-2310 min

Central Valley DailyJune 13: Sen. Adam Schiff Says Americans Should Be ‘Deeply Concerned’ About Federal Immigration ActionsPresident Trump’s decision to federalize the National Guard in response to protests in Los Angeles has voters and elected officials on edge. California U.S. Senator Adam Schiff speaks to KVPR in this episode about what he views as growing concerns. Plus, the latest news headlines: Advocates say farmworkers are being targeted by immigration agents; and Yosemite National Park will soon open all of its campgrounds.2025-06-1316 min

Central Valley DailyJune 9: Debate Continues Around Transgender Athletes After State Championships In ClovisThe city of Clovis has found itself at the epicenter of a national debate about the role of transgender athletes in sports. That’s because a trans female athlete competed alongside cisgender girls from across the state at the state track and field championships that took place at Buchanan High School. The competition was the subject of intense debate before, during, and even after it took place, and now the Department of Justice has escalated the situation for public schools. KVPR reporter Samantha Rangel breaks down the latest updates.2025-06-0908 min

Central Valley DailyJune 6: Beneath Sequoia National Park, We Venture Inside The Newly Reopened ‘Crystal Cave’Have you ever seen cave bacon, or incandescent, lavender fairy pools? These are some of the many wonders visitors can now see at Crystal Cave beneath Sequoia National Park. KVPR Reporter Joshua Yeager tells us about what he saw on the first tour of the cave since it reopened after a parade of natural disasters. Plus, the latest news headlines: California’s big city mayors call for protecting homelessness funding; and what Newsom says about transgender athletes amid controversy.2025-06-0613 min

Central Valley DailyJune 3: A Champion Speller From Fresno Reflects On Her National Win – Eight Years LaterFresno native Ananya Vinay was 12 years old when she won the ultra-competitive Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2017. Now that this year’s champion has been crowned, KVPR’s Samantha Rangel talks with Vinay to hear how her own win all those years ago changed her life. Plus, the latest news headlines: Federal judge sentences man in Bitwise Industries fraud scheme; and Central Unified names a new superintendent.2025-06-0311 min

Central Valley DailyMay 28: How Does California Plan To Fix Its Budget? Here Are Some Possible WaysCalifornia is looking at deep cuts to balance its budget before the next fiscal year starting in July. But how is it going to get there, and what programs could suffer? We speak with CalMatters reporter Alexei Koseff, who gives us clues. Plus, the latest news headlines: President Trump threatens state funding over a trans athlete competing in Clovis this weekend, and KVPR mourns the death of long-time host Marv Allen.2025-05-2814 min

Central Valley DailyMay 27: How Young Valley Spellers Get Ready For Big CompetitionsThe Scripps National Spelling Bee kicks off on Tuesday in Maryland, and a Fresno County speller is among those competing. This is the Super Bowl of spellers across the country. But how do students prepare for it? KVPR’s Samantha Rangel takes us behind the scenes.2025-05-2711 min

Central Valley DailyMay 21: California’s Poet Laureate Learned A Lot The First Time. Now He’ll Get To Do It AgainEducator and poet Lee Herrick was reappointed this spring as California Poet Laureate for the next two years. Herrick traveled across the state during his first term to share his work. In this episode, he speaks with KVPR’s Samantha Rangel about what inspires his craft. Plus, the latest news headlines: Fresno County releases info on ICE jail transfers, and a Valley man recalls a Mexican ship that crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge.2025-05-2112 min

Central Valley DailyMay 19: Students Living Under Cloud Of Uncertainty As Government Cracks Down On Visas, PermitsEarlier this year, a wave of international students suddenly had their visas and work permits revoked by the Trump Administration. This comes as the federal government cracks down on immigration enforcement more broadly. Students eventually gained their permits and visas back, but it left them feeling uncertain about their future. KVPR’s Rachel Livinal joins us to discuss the effect of these changes at places like UC Merced.2025-05-1910 min

Central Valley DailyMay 15: Danger Lurks For California’s Prison Population In Cases Of DisastersTwo prisons in the small city of Corcoran in Kings County nearly flooded when Tulare Lake returned in 2023. A recent state audit found that it would have taken at least three days for the prisons to evacuate in an emergency. KVPR’s Kerry Klein discusses some of the problems state prisons face in cases of an emergency. Plus, the latest news headlines: Teenage Clovis shooting suspects appear in court for the first time, and Community Health System settles in an alleged fraud case.2025-05-1514 min

Central Valley DailyMay 5: Sen. Alex Padilla On Trump’s First 100 Days And Legislation To Fight FiresCalifornia Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla sat down with KVPR for an interview about legislation he is hoping to get through Congress and on President Trump’s desk. It would address wildfire policies. Padilla also weighs in on Trump’s second term so far.2025-05-0512 min

Central Valley DailyMay 1: Can Progressives Get Voters In A Ruby Red Valley District On Their Side?KVPR reporter Joshua Yeager reports on recent visits by progressive politicians to Kern County, a conservative bastion in liberal California. Yeager discusses how voters are responding to recent shifts in national politics. Plus, the latest news headlines: Workers observe “May Day” occasion; and funding for a program that protects a fox species is pulled from a Valley university.2025-05-0114 min

Central Valley DailyApr. 16: Why Did Bernie Sanders Visit Bakersfield? He Tells Us.Senator Bernie Sanders, along with Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortes, stopped in Bakersfield for his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour on Tuesday. But not all the thousands who showed up were “feeling the Bern.” KVPR sat down with the senator to discuss why he stopped in the historically conservative town. Plus, the latest news headlines: an escaped convict from Kern County is wanted for murder in Mexico, a Democratic challenger enters the race for Congressman David Valadao’s seat, and a food truck fight in Fresno’s popular River Park area.2025-04-1613 min

Central Valley DailyApr. 11: Inside A Secret, No-Phones-Allowed Comedy Show In MercedHave you ever been to a stand-up comedy show? How about one that’s at an unexpected place - like a laundromat or hair salon - and you only find out the address a few hours ahead of time? On today’s show, we’ll hear from KVPR reporter Rachel Livinal, who checked out a secret show in Merced. Plus, the latest news headlines: a Kern County fugitive is linked to the death of a Mexican police officer in Tijuana, and the city of Arvin plans for a special city council election.2025-04-1113 min

Central Valley DailyApr. 9: What Mass Bee Die-Offs Look Like In The Central ValleyWe just wrapped up the most deadly winter on record for commercial honeybees: a survey by the non-profit research organization “Project Apis m.” estimated that 62% of commercial bees died between fall and spring. These bees not only make honey but also pollinate more than 100 U.S. crops - contributing to a total of $18 billion dollars in agricultural revenue. What did these losses mean to commercial beekeepers – and the local ag industry that depends so much on them? On today’s episode, we talk about these sudden, massive die-offs with KVPR reporter Kerry Klein. Plus, the latest news headlines: A news investig...2025-04-0913 min

Central Valley DailyApr. 7: Could A Green Energy Boom In The Desert Devastate A Natural Icon?California is pushing to secure as much renewable energy as it transitions away from fossil fuels. One of the places in the state where sunshine is in abundance is the Mojave Desert. However, a rush to build solar energy infrastructure there is having consequences for the famed plant known as Joshua Trees. Today, we speak with KVPR reporter Joshua Yeager about that battle. Plus, the latest news headlines: A winner emerges in a special Fresno council race, and when Sen. Bernie Sanders is expected to visit the Central Valley.2025-04-0713 min

Central Valley DailyFeb. 27: Comedian Paula Poundstone Talks Comedy – And CatsWhether you know Paula Poundstone as a stand-up comedian, actor, or panelist on NPR’s popular quiz show Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me, she’s a long-time comedy veteran. She’s making two tour stops in the Valley this coming weekend, and she sat down with KVPR producer Jonathan Linden for this episode to talk about authenticity on stage, her evolution as a performer, and life with a house full of animals. Plus, the latest news headlines: The ACLU is suing the Department of Homeland Security over January’s Kern County immigration raid, and a House committee grills an Army Corps...2025-02-2714 min

Central Valley DailyFeb. 20: Inside The World’s Largest Farm Trade Show In TulareEvery year, the city of Tulare doubles its population when the world’s largest farm trade show comes to town. The World Ag Expo wrapped up last week, but in today’s episode, KVPR reporter Kerry Klein brings us a story from the show’s grounds. We hear what makes the expo so attractive and what it takes to make it happen. Plus, the latest news headlines: Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s next move and Valley food banks' worries.2025-02-2011 min

Central Valley DailyFeb. 14: De-Stigmatizing The Challenges Facing Women In AgricultureAgriculture has long been perceived as a male-dominated industry. However, women are increasingly taking on leadership and management roles in the field. At this year’s World Ag Expo in Tulare, challenges facing women in agriculture were the focus of one seminar. In this episode, KVPR sits down with Amy Wolfe of the California Farmland Trust to talk about this topic. Plus, the latest news headlines, including Fresno appointing a new police chief and local sheriffs' calling for reform to California's sanctuary law.2025-02-1412 min

Central Valley DailyFeb. 3: In A Small Mountain Town, A Pile Of Dirt Becomes A Viral SensationWhat’s in a pile of dirt? For residents of the small Sierra Nevada community of Oakhurst, the answer is unity–and a little bit of mischief. On today’s show, KVPR reporter Rachel Livinal takes us to the town where a seemingly normal dirt mound became a viral sensation. We also hear what it inspired residents to do next. Plus, the latest news headlines, including the reason why some are taking part in a “day without immigrants,” and why normally dry rivers were flowing this past weekend in Tulare County.2025-02-0312 min

Central Valley DailyDec. 24: Looking Back At KVPR’s Biggest Stories Of 2024This year, scandals, natural disasters, and human stories shaped the San Joaquin Valley. As we say goodbye to 2024, we look back at some of the stories covered by KVPR. We speak to KVPR news director Cresencio Rodriguez-Delgado and Associate Editor Kerry Klein about the stories that kept the newsroom – and our airwaves – busy.2024-12-2419 min

Central Valley DailyDec. 23: An Iconic Bar Sign in Bakersfield Comes HomeAfter a seven-year search, a neon sign belonging to the iconic Trout's bar in Bakersfield has returned home after being stolen. But it's not just any sign, it's part of Bakersfield's country music roots. Today, we talk to KVPR reporter Joshua Yeager, who shares the improbable story of how the sign was found – and what it means to musicians today. Plus, the latest news headlines, including farmworkers getting protective equipment against bird flu and how medical debt will not affect credit reports starting in 2025.2024-12-2312 min

Central Valley DailyDec. 17: Four Months After Bird Flu Was Found In The Valley, Where Are We Now?Tulare County is one of the country’s top dairy-producing counties. But now, four months after the first detection of avian influenza in California dairy cows, how is the county handling the outbreak? In today’s episode, we get an update from KVPR’s Kerry Klein. She tells us how bird flu is also affecting humans. Plus, the latest news headlines, including sentencing for Bitwise Industries co-founders, and, could blood tests determine unhealthy alcohol use?2024-12-1714 min

Central Valley DailyDec. 12: Despite Law, Many State Universities Still House Native American RemainsCalifornia universities are required to return Native American remains to their rightful tribes. However, a recent state audit shows many San Joaquin Valley universities still hold many of the items. KVPR's Rachel Livinal discusses her recent reporting on what is being done to get the remains and artifacts returned. Plus, the latest news headlines, including former Rep. TJ Cox's plans to plead guilty to financial crimes and a special election is set for Assembly District 32.2024-12-1213 min

Central Valley DailyDec. 2: How The Valley Is Stepping In For Immigrants Before Trump Takes OfficeDonald Trump is set to return to office in January when he’s sworn in as the 47th U.S. president. Immigrant communities across the U.S. worry he will make good on promises of mass deportations. So how are groups preparing to support immigrants who might be caught up in those actions? We speak with KVPR’s Esther Quintanilla on the steps some local groups and officials are taking now. Plus, the latest news headlines, including, what does California’s lieutenant governor know about a retaliation case at Fresno State? And more disruption for a Valley raw milk producer.2024-12-0214 min

Central Valley DailyNov. 27: How A Valley Republican Keeps Winning A House Seat In A Heavy Democratic House DistrictRepublican Rep. David Valadao is returning to Congress for a sixth term in January after beating former state Assemblymember Rudy Salas for a second time. The contest drew millions of dollars in campaign spending to unseat Valadao. But we speak with KVPR’s Joshua Yeager about why voters keep sending Valadao to Washington. Plus, the latest news headlines, including a Fresno County patient infected with rabies who has died, and Rep. Vince Fong’s response to Newsom’s economic push.2024-11-2712 min

Central Valley DailyNov. 13: The Fresno Police Department Is Using AI To Write Police ReportsWhat role does artificial intelligence play in police departments? While not yet widely used, the Fresno Police Department is already utilizing the technology to write its police reports. We speak with KVPR editor and reporter Kerry Klein about her new reporting that looks into this. Plus, the latest news headlines, including a bomb threat investigated at the Kings County elections office and Fresno's search for a new poet laureate.2024-11-1313 min

Central Valley DailyNov. 6: A Look Back At Election Day And Night In The ValleyElection Day is behind us. We hear how it went in the San Joaquin Valley. Nationally, Republicans have seemed to have a lead in Congress and in the White House. In the Valley, congressional races were still too close to call as of Tuesday night. KVPR’s Kerry Klein and Cresencio Rodriguez-Delgado tell us where things ended up, and what reporters from the KVPR newsroom observed as the night went on.2024-11-0613 min

Central Valley DailyNov. 5: It’s Election Day. Here’s Where Valley Voters Stand On The IssuesIt’s Election Day! As millions head out to vote, many more have already cast their ballots. KVPR asked voters in the San Joaquin Valley what is top of mind today. We hear directly from voters across the region. Plus, what KVPR is watching for in today’s election – from tight congressional districts to the race for the White House.2024-11-0511 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 31: As Donald Trump Promises Mass Deportations, How Will That Look In The Valley?Former president Donald Trump is promising mass deportations for millions of undocumented people across the U.S. if he is re-elected to the White House. We discuss with KVPR's Esther Quintanilla how such a move would impact the Central Valley. The region is home to thousands of undocumented residents, who work in crucial industries, like agriculture. Plus, the latest news headlines, including California's top cop intervening in the Kern River fight, and advocates worrying about workers amid bird flu cases.2024-10-3113 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 29: They’ve Served Time In Prison. Does Kamala Harris Have Their Vote?Kamala Harris spent 13 years of her career as a county and state prosecutor before becoming a U.S. senator and eventually Vice President. But does her early work as a top cop impact the vote of former and currently incarcerated people? KVPR’s Rachel Livinal went looking for answers to this question and shares conversations she had with that voting bloc. Plus, the latest news headlines, including an investigation into Rep. John Duarte’s family business and new state regulations for electric motorcycles.2024-10-2911 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 28: The 300-Mile March By Central Valley SikhsMembers of California’s Punjabi Sikh community are marching more than 300 miles to the state capital. They’re raising awareness about the 1984 anti-Sikh riots that broke out in India 40 years ago, killing thousands. KVPR’s Cresencio Rodriguez-Delgado takes us into the march and tells us about new concerns within the community. Plus, the latest news headlines, including highlights from a House District 13 debate and a win for farmworkers in court.2024-10-2814 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 21: Almonds vs. Pests. Researchers Get Creative To Win The Fight.Last year, the navel orangeworm killed nearly 4% of California's almonds before they could even make it to supermarket shelves. Researchers in the Central Valley are now developing a technique to fight back. We speak with David Haviland of the UC Cooperative Extension to discuss the solution and ongoing research. Plus, the latest news headlines, including new Fresno State graduates from a state prison and fake county letters reaching Merced area residents.2024-10-2112 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 18: Delano’s Filipino Culture On Display This WeekendAfter a five-year hiatus, the Philippine Weekend festival is returning to Delano, California. We speak with one of the festival’s organizers about the festival’s meaning and hear about the deeper history of Filipinos in the city. Plus, the latest news headlines, including a first-ever brew fest coming to Fresno and a Clovis Unified faculty group being ordered to disband.2024-10-1811 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 17: Merced County’s Idea To Maintain Public Safety: Tax ResidentsMerced County leaders say funding is needed to sustain its sheriff and fire departments. On Nov. 5th, voters will decide whether a tax on them through Measure R is a way to do that. Brianna Vaccari, a reporter with The Merced Focus newsroom, discusses how Measure R would work. Plus, the latest news headlines, including, cooler temperatures coming to the Valley, and sentencing is delayed for the Bitwise Industries co-founders.2024-10-1711 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 16: Clovis Will Soon Have District-Based City Council Elections. What Does That Mean?Following the threat of a lawsuit, the City of Clovis will move to district-based city council elections starting in 2026. Gregory Weaver, a reporter with Fresnoland, discusses what that means and why the city has historically been resistant to the change. Plus, the latest news headlines, including rising numbers of bird flu cases in the Valley and supervisor candidates in Kern County, face off in a debate.2024-10-1611 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 15: The Very Tight Race To Control California’s 22nd Congressional DistrictVoters in the Central Valley’s 22nd Congressional district have faced an onslaught of political advertisements this election season for the race between Democrat Rudy Salas and Republican incumbent David Valadao. KVPR’s Joshua Yeager reports on the stakes and what voters say it will take for Democrats to take control.Plus, the latest news headlines, including how displaced oil workers in Kern County are getting support, and a state proposition looks to enshrine same-sex marriage in the constitution.2024-10-1513 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 14: Burned-Out Wildland Firefighters Are Also Fighting For Better PayMuch of the land in the Sierra Nevada is protected by firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service. But in recent years, the agency has struggled to keep fire crews fully staffed, as many firefighters have left for better pay. Journalist Gabrielle Cannon, with The Guardian newspaper, discusses what’s been done to raise firefighter pay.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a third racehorse death at The Big Fresno Fair and more on the Bird Flu outbreak in cattle across Tulare County.2024-10-1412 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 11: This Election, California Schools Are Asking Voters For Billions In FundsThis election, voters across the state and the Central Valley will decide on whether or not to approve school bond measures aimed at addressing major – and costly – infrastructure needs. EdSource reporter Lasherica Thornton discusses how much some districts are asking for and what the funds would cover.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the search for Fresno’s next police chief and Sikh-Americans from the Valley march to the state’s capital.2024-10-1110 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 10: Can Young People Flip This Critical House Seat In California?In the northern San Joaquin Valley, Congressional District 13 is a toss-up this election, and has the potential to shape the makeup of Congress. KVPR’s Rachel Livinal reports from the district on how young people could be a deciding factor on whether the seat goes to a Republican or a Democrat.Plus, the latest news headlines, including, a scary plane landing in Bakersfield, and a valley fever bill goes to Congress.2024-10-1012 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 9: Fewer Undocumented Students Are Enrolling In College Amid Challenges To DACANew research shows that at California public universities, there’s been a significant drop in the enrollment of low-income undocumented students. Bill Kidder with the UCLA Civil Rights Projects discusses the study's findings and what may be behind the drop in enrollment.Plus, the latest news headlines, including, the bird flu’s impacts on industries other than dairy in the Valley, and the iconic Hanford business up for sale.2024-10-0911 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 8: A Retired Fresno Teacher Joins Recovery Efforts After Hurricane HeleneThe American Red Cross deployed over a thousand disaster workers from California after Hurricane Helene devastated many communities in the Southeastern United States last month. We speak with a Fresno woman who is on the ground helping recovery efforts in North Carolina.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a new study highlighting the potential effects of wildfire smoke on Valley crops and candidates for Fresno County supervisor square off.2024-10-0811 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 7: California Will Now Limit Where Warehouses Can Be BuiltGov. Gavin Newsom has signed a new law, AB-98, that will limit where new warehouses can be placed. LA Times reporter Rebecca Plevin discusses how the new rules will impact places that are seeing an expansion of warehouses and the logistics industry development, like the Central Valley.Plus, the latest news headlines, including dairy workers in Tulare County catching bird flu and Clovis plans to change how it elects council members.2024-10-0711 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 4: The Race Horse Experience At The Big Fresno FairHorse racing at The Big Fresno Fair this year has an expanded schedule, giving fairgoers more opportunity to view the competitions. Larry Swarzlander discusses this year's racing and also the recent deaths of two horses.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the state health department confirming two bird flu cases among people in the Central Valley and October heat breaks records.2024-10-0409 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 3: Why Did 3,000 Fish Turn Up Dead In The Kern River?In September, a local professor discovered over 3,000 dead fish in the Kern River around Bakersfield. The mass die-off led to criticism toward city officials. But who is really to blame? Lois Henry, editor of SJV Water, discusses the complicated web of rights over the river.Plus, the latest news headlines, including how the debate between Rudy Salas and David Valadao for House District 13 played out and a Montana man convicted of threatening former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.2024-10-0311 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 2: Can This Idea Solve Fresno’s Housing Crisis?Amid a crackdown on homelessness and public camping, a little-known program in Fresno is setting out to reduce barriers to housing and help people get back on their feet. KVPR’s Esther Quintanilla reports on how the program works and who it’s helping.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a new center in Merced focusing on “generational healing,” and a new poll shows a tight race for House District 22.2024-10-0212 min

Central Valley DailyOct. 1: Behind Republican Presidencies. A Visalia Native Recounts Historical Experiences.Not many Valley natives can say they’ve worked for multiple U.S. presidents, but Ken Khachigian can. In his new book, “Behind Closed Doors,” the Visalia native takes readers behind the scenes from Richard Nixon’s resignation to Ronald Reagan’s last speech as president at the Republican National Convention. He joins today’s episode for a conversation.Plus, the latest news headlines, a racehorse dies at the Big Fresno Fair before opening day, and a Valley water official avoids prison in a water theft case.2024-10-0110 min

Central Valley DailySept. 30: As PG&E Rates Go Up, Advocates Say Customers Have A VoiceA new PG&E rate increase was approved by California regulators earlier this month. It’s not the first one this year, and the average customer is now paying $40 to $50 more per month, compared to 2023. Mark Toney leads The Utility Reform Network, or TURN, which is a nonprofit that advocates for rate-payers. Toney discusses what he is hearing from customers, and ways his organization is responding to rising utility rates.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the push to get out the vote in swing House districts in the Valley, and a memorial for victims of a 1948 plane crash west of...2024-09-3011 min

Central Valley DailySept. 27: Hanford’s Chinese History Tries To Hold OnChinese immigrants first came to Hanford seeking work with local railroads and farms. Some estimate the town at one point had a Chinese immigrant population of 1,000. While many of them are gone, remnants of Hanford’s Chinese heritage remain. Arianna Wing discusses Hanford’s Chinese history and efforts to restore the physical history.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a shakeup in the Merced City School District leadership and a judge appointing a receiver for Assemi cropland.2024-09-2710 min

Central Valley DailySept. 26: Who Were The ‘Deportees?’ An Author’s Search for AnswersIn 1948, a plane carrying mostly Mexican farm laborers crashed near Coalinga, killing all on board. When first reported, a local paper only referred to the laborers as “deportees.” Decades later, Tim Z. Hernandez went on a search to find their names and connect with their families. Hernandez discusses his new book that remembers the crash victims.Plus, the latest news headlines, including former Congressman TJ Cox’s day in court, and how voting trends in the San Joaquin Valley compare nationally.2024-09-2612 min

Central Valley DailySept. 25: As Illegal Camping Bans Go Into Effect, How The Unhoused Are Handling ItNearly three months ago, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that cities can crack down on homeless encampments. Now, some cities in the San Joaquin Valley have enacted new rules to keep unhoused people off the streets. Fresnoland reporter Pablo Orihuela joins us to share more.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a new poll that shows Valley Democrats have an edge in close House races, and local businesses oppose a state warehouse bill.2024-09-2511 min

Central Valley DailySept. 24: A Fire Destroyed A Historic California Town. Can It Recover?In July, a ferocious fire burned through the historic mountain community of Havilah in Kern County, leaving only destruction in its path. Two months after the disaster, KVPR’s Joshua Yeager visits Havilah to hear how it’s recovering.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the City of Fresno’s approach to homelessness under a new camping ban, and the discovery of a record-breaking pine tree in Yosemite.2024-09-2412 min

Central Valley DailySept. 23: More People. Higher Heat. Can California’s Inland Cities Cope?The Central Valley and other inland regions of California experienced record-breaking heat this summer. This comes as more people are also moving inland for its affordability. According to new reporting from CalMatters, this combination could be deadly. CalMatters reporter Alejandra Reyes-Velarde shares more.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the United Farm Workers wrapping up its convention in Bakersfield and voters hitting the streets in Valley swing districts.2024-09-2311 min

Central Valley DailySept. 20: Fall Is Nearly Here, Experts Say Get Vaccinated For COVID-19With the temperatures set to start cooling down and more people staying at home, health experts are encouraging people to get the latest flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. CVS Pharmacist Dr. Bobby Dhaliwal joins us and tells us the latest information.Plus, the latest news headlines, including how voters are feeling about the upcoming election and the Assemi family’s response to financial challenges.2024-09-2010 min

Central Valley DailySept. 19: A Journalist Explores Big Questions About Our WildernessHow does climate change impact our relationship with protected wilderness? KALW’s Marissa Ortega-Welch recently dived deeper into that topic and joined us to discuss her new podcast.Plus, the latest news headlines, including the push by Valley legislators to improve healthcare, and the arrest of a Fresno police officer.2024-09-1910 min

Central Valley DailySept. 18: Investigating Alleged Use of Force at Chowchilla PrisonIn August, 100 incarcerated women at the Chowchilla State Prison were allegedly pepper-sprayed and tear-gassed by staff for more than an hour. We catch up with KQED’s Madi Bolanos about an investigation that is now underway.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a million-dollar wage theft settlement in Bakersfield and growing financial pressure on a prominent Fresno family.2024-09-1808 min

Central Valley DailySept. 17: Fresno Interim Police Chief on Community Trust, Department’s DirectionToday on Central Valley Daily, Fresno Interim Police Chief Mindy Casto discusses crime levels across the city and how the department tries to build trust within the community.Plus, the latest news headlines, including a judge’s ruling for a former small-town police chief, and findings from an investigation into a worker's death at a chicken facility.2024-09-1711 min

Central Valley DailySept. 16: A Valley Woman Goes to Space After Death – And You Can TooToday on Central Valley Daily, as more Americans choose cremation after death, thousands are choosing to send their ashes — into space. How one Central Valley woman’s love of travel landed her there.Plus, the latest news headlines, including Fresno County reports its first death from West Nile Virus, and new research shows climate change can amplify environmental impacts of agriculture.2024-09-1612 min

Central Valley DailySept. 13: A Valley Native Sees a Growing Connection Between Climate and PhysiciansToday on Central Valley Daily, in the face of growing concern over climate change, why a Valley native is advocating for more “climate-conscious physicians.”Plus, the latest news headlines, including a big move for Fresno State as it looks to join the PAC-12 conference, and the case of a missing woman along the Kern River.2024-09-1311 min

Central Valley DailySept. 12: The High Stakes of a New Industry Sprouting in Kern CountyToday on Central Valley Daily, plans to build the state’s largest carbon removal and storage projects in Kern County are coming up for approval. The facilities could store millions of tons of planet-warming carbon dioxide underneath active oil fields in the southern San Joaquin Valley.Plus, the latest news headlines, including what local voters are saying after the highly-anticipated Harris-Trump debate, and a popular Yosemite National Park hotel is closing.2024-09-1213 min

Central Valley DailySept. 11: Associate Degrees Are Surging – Among High School StudentsToday on Central Valley Daily, what’s behind the uptick of students in the San Joaquin Valley graduating from high school not just with a diploma – but also an associate’s degree?Plus, the latest news headlines, including remarks made in Washington, D.C., by Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux, and how the Valley is remembering the 9/11 attacks.2024-09-1111 min

Central Valley DailyIntroducing: Central Valley DailyComing soon from KVPR, a new daily news podcast called Central Valley Daily.2024-09-0300 min

Valley EditionValley Edition - June 17, 2022 - Improving teacher diversity, Pride poetry and dance, plus some of the KVPR news team’s favorite stories.Improving teacher diversity, Pride poetry and dance, plus some of the KVPR news team’s favorite stories.2022-06-2153 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 11: StoryIn this last episode of The Other California, we return to the town where we started, Woodlake. Here, Olga and Manuel Jimenez talk about the legacy of the Bravo Lake Botanical Garden and why listening to the stories of those we see as “the other” matter.2022-05-2713 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 10: LivingstonA Japanese farming community called Yamato Colony took roots in Livingston in 1907; by 1940, about 70 Japanese families were farming more than 3700 acres in Livingston. Two years later, its residents were sent away by the U.S. government to concentration camps. We meet 97-year-old Sherman Kishi, who returned after the war to grow grapes and then almonds on his farm. We also hear about the legacy of a Sikh family who left India fifty years ago and ended up creating a cultural oasis in Livingston. Plus, sweet potato farmers look back at when their families immigrated from the Azores.2022-05-2027 min

Valley EditionValley Edition- May 13, 2022 - Mai Der Vang named Pulitzer Prize finalist, The Other California, June primaryPlus, from KVPR’s new podcast The Other California, a profile of the Kern County City of Taft. The oil town’s future is uncertain as California turns toward green energy. Listen to this story and more on the podcast above.2022-05-1353 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 9: TaftTaft was described in 1912 as “perhaps the liveliest town in the state,” a frontier community of the sort that movie fans once expected Spencer Tracy and Clark Gable to brawl in. Of course, it’s changed tremendously since its early frontier years, but one thing remains the same: it’s still an oil town through and through and the people who live here want it to stay that way. In this episode, we meet some of oil’s biggest supporters. And a high school culinary teacher helps students understand each other through local recipes: Native American, Samoan, Oaxacan.2022-05-1323 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 8: HomeIn this week’s episode, host Alice Daniel talks to writer and journalist Mark Arax about what it means to grapple with trying to truly understand the place where he was born and still calls home, the San Joaquin Valley. Mark has been called a 21st Century John Steinbeck for his books that pry into the soul of California. His most recent work, "The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California," is a national bestseller and has been hailed by critics as one of the most important books ever written about the West.2022-05-0628 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 7: AvenalKids in small towns don’t always have enough to do after school but a free boxing gym in Avenal is a place of dreams for many youth including two fourth graders who are training hard to win tournaments. In this episode, we meet Jaylene and Jordan, sparring partners whose love for the sport is infectious. A few old timers in Avenal walk us through the town’s history and a young city manager explains why he returned to improve his hometown after attending a prestigious university.2022-04-2922 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 6: HuronAll mayors of small towns need a day job. In Huron, Mayor Rey León, a community organizer since college, runs a non-profit that focuses on making the lives of farm workers better. This episode features his most recent projects including an innovative ride-sharing program called the Green Raiteros. The nationally recognized program uses electric vehicles and primarily benefits elderly farm workers who need to travel to nearby cities for medical care. And an 85-year-old retired school teacher tells us she’s still trying to get a high school in Huron. Right now, students have to take a bus to Coa...2022-04-2228 min

Valley EditionValley Edition – April 15, 2022 – A bonus hour all about climate changeOn this week’s Valley Edition, a bonus episode – a collaboration from the California Newsroom entitled Climate Costs: A public radio special exploring the high price of climate change for California communities. Hosted by KVPR’s Kerry Klein, with contributions from eight public radio newsrooms in California, we bring you stories of the challenges brought on by climate change. We’ll visit the Northern hemisphere’s largest geothermal field, a Native American reservation in the Eastern Sierra, a Central Coast city grappling with the loss of its coastline, and a region where acres and acres of orange groves are being replaced w...2022-04-1555 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 5: OriginsPeople come to work in the San Joaquin Valley for many reasons: as refugees, as migrants and as immigrants. And as you’ll see in this episode, they don’t all come to work the land. At the beginning of The Other California podcast, Host Alice Daniel told you about why and how she came to the San Joaquin Valley, specifically Fresno. A lot of listeners related to it and told her their own stories of how they got here. The KVPR news team is emblematic of so many of those histories, plus as you’ll see, they’re great storytel...2022-04-1526 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 4: Chowchilla and FairmeadWe leave last week’s Western Stampede behind but return to the town of Chowchilla to find out more about its history from its Dust Bowl migrants to present day immigrants, including the only Yemeni-American family living in Chowchilla. We also meet the 84-year-old grandson of one of the town’s earliest white settlers. His grandparents sold 150 horses and left the cold weather of North Dakota to start a dairy farm in Chowchilla. Their 1910 house still stands. Like many towns back then, Chowchilla had racist housing covenants that kept certain groups of people out. But just a couple of miles from...2022-04-0826 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 3: ChowchillaThe town of Chowchilla has an annual cattle drive that goes straight through the center of town to mark the beginning of the Chowchilla Western Stampede, an event that includes team roping and barrel racing. This episode explores the history of the stampede and introduces listeners to an 87-year-old rodeo star who has competed in the stampede since the early 1960s. She also tells us about her life as a stunt woman in Hollywood where she doubled for movie stars like Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton. And a horse trainer reflects on his 50-year career.2022-04-0118 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 2: WoodlakeThe town of Woodlake doesn’t have a stoplight but it does have a 13-acre botanical garden where kids learn about agriculture and earn their community service hours. Locals Manuel and Olga Jimenez created and designed the garden to improve their town and give kids a chance to work in the dirt. This episode also takes listeners to Dora’s restaurant where Mariachi singer and owner Dora Orozco serves Mexican food and entertains guests with her songs. And we delve into why the city embraced cannabis businesses ahead of other towns in the valley. Jennifer Malone explains the work she is d...2022-03-2537 min

Valley EditionValley Edition - March 18, 2022 - Bakersfield Police Department, American Politics, The Other CaliforniaWe introduce a new podcast from KVPR, the Other California. Listen to this conversation and more in the podcast above.2022-03-1852 min

The Other CaliforniaEpisode 1: RidgesIn this episode of The Other California, Host Alice Daniel starts out by sharing her own story about what brought her to the San Joaquin Valley, her first impressions, and how reporting on the stories of the people who live in the many small towns in the region allowed her to better see the richness of the place, the real ridges, the diversity, the distinctness of a land that is truly like no other as well as the vital role of the Valley in the state’s history.2022-03-1819 min

Valley EditionValley Edition - March 11, 2022 - Bakersfield Police, Fresno Philharmonic, Newbery MedalOn this week’s Valley Edition: An analysis by KVPR and the California Reporting Project looks at the Bakersfield Police Department’s use of force with cases involving mental health or substance related disorders. That story and more.2022-03-1452 min

The Other CaliforniaIntroducing: The Other CaliforniaListen to the trailer for The Other California.2022-03-0902 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolBonus: Escape From Mammoth Pool on 'Science Friday'We're very excited to announce that we have shared another adaptation of this series with Science Friday , the national radio show produced by WNYC Studios. As " the source for entertaining and educational stories about science, technology, and other cool stuff," t hey were interested in the wildfire outlook for California given climate change and the vulnerable state of our forests, and, more specifically, the effects of all of this on people. The segment features excerpts from the original podcast plus a new feature that pulls together lessons learned from throughout the series. Take a listen online, or subscribe to the...2021-11-1200 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 7: Climate Change, Fire Suppression, And The Growing Human Toll Of WildfiresThe emergency rescues at Mammoth Pool Reservoir last September didn't happen in a vacuum. Wildfires in the West are getting bigger, faster, and more intense, and “megafires” like the Creek Fire, driven largely by climate change and a century of fire suppression, are putting people and infrastructure more at risk than ever. This conversation features CalFire/Fresno County Fire Battalion Chief Daniel Urias; Province Ecologist Marc Meyer and Research Economist Jose Sanchez with the U.S. Forest Service; Sergeant Jeff Andriese, Aerial Supervisor with the California Highway Patrol; and Registered Professional Forester Julianne Stewart. This is the final episode in this...2021-10-1515 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 7: Climate Change, Fire Suppression, And The Growing Human Toll Of WildfiresThis is the sixth episode of KVPR’s podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool: the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.2021-10-1515 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 6: Could This Happen To Me?Last September, just days after the Mammoth Pool Reservoir rescues, thick orange smoke and falling ash from a different wildfire forced Jack Haskel to cut short a backpacking trip in Northern California. A few years before that, he had to evacuate a trail under similar circumstances in Oregon. But not only is Jack a backpacker, he’s also a Trail Information Manager with the Pacific Crest Trail Association, and he is increasingly finding himself spending his summer days fielding phone calls from hikers and backpackers seeing smoke and wondering what to do. In this interview, host Kerry Klein talks with Ja...2021-10-0918 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 6: Could This Happen To Me?This is the sixth episode of KVPR’s podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool: the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.2021-10-0818 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolBonus: Hear Us On KQED's 'The California Report Magazine'Great news: our podcast has been featured on The California Report Magazine , a weekly radio show and podcast produced by our friends at KQED. Every week, they share creative, sound-rich stories that take listeners on “road trip for the ears and the imagination,” and today they’ve dedicated an entire episode to Escape From Mammoth Pool . The episode features excerpts from our original series, as well as a conversation between host Sasha Khokha and our own Kerry Klein. Head on over and take a listen, and while you’re at it, subscribe to The California Report Magazine wherever you get your pod 2021-10-0200 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 5: A Deeper Dive With 'Chief Joe' RosamondIn an earlier episode of this podcast, Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Rosamond, a helicopter pilot with the California Army National Guard, went so far as to say that flying the rescue mission at Mammoth Pool Reservoir “was the most dangerous, most risky thing I've ever gotten myself into.” What you haven’t heard is just how harrowing those flights were—particularly the one in which Rosamond and his crew loaded in three times as many people as the helicopter is rated for. In this extended interview we take a deep dive with Chief Rosamond, who’s been a guardsman for 24 years, fli...2021-10-0222 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 5: A Deeper Dive With 'Chief Joe' RosamondThis is the fifth episode of KVPR’s podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool: the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.2021-10-0122 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 4: The View A Year LaterIn the first three episodes of this series, we shared stories from the panicked evacuations and dramatic rescues of hundreds of people trapped at Mammoth Pool Reservoir in the Sierra Nevada. They’d fled there over Labor Day weekend 2020, as the Creek Fire consumed their campground and closed in on the lake. This week, we step back from that narrative with an epilogue. In a conversation with KVPR colleague Kathleen Schock, Kerry Klein checks in on these three families a year later: How have they recovered? How do they look back at the experience? And who is suing whom? Credits: Re...2021-09-2512 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 4: The View A Year LaterThis is the fourth episode of KVPR’s podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool: the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.2021-09-2412 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 3: Heroes, Big And SmallThis is the third episode of KVPR’s podcastEscape From Mammoth Pool: the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history.2021-09-1814 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 3: Heroes, Big And SmallThere are many ways to be heroic. Some of them are death-defying—like rushing into a burning forest to save hundreds of strangers—but some aren’t, and even talking someone down from a panic attack, or offering a ride in the middle of a wildfire, can pay dividends in serendipitous, even life-saving ways. And so, even though by many measures, what happened at Mammoth Pool Reservoir over Labor Day weekend 2020 was a tragedy, the high-stakes situation also revealed some of the best of human nature. In today’s episode: the heroes, in all forms, who enabled everyone to get out aliv...2021-09-1714 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 2: The 10-Minute Drive That Lasted An EternityThis is the second episode of KVPR’s podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool : the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California’s recorded history. Billowing smoke. Fallen trees. Flames hurtling down hillsides. Parents separated from children, and cars abandoned when families jumped ship and bolted for the water. These were the conditions that made a 2-mile drive, from a campground being consumed by flames to the relative safety of Mammoth Pool Reservoir, feel like an eternity. In last week’s episode, campers were in the throes of panic and chaos as they prepar...2021-09-1114 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 1: 'You Could See The Fire, You Could See The Flames'Escape From Mammoth Pool, a new limited-run podcast from KVPR, is the true story of how 242 people and 16 dogs escaped one of the fastest-moving wildfires in California history. In this first episode, we meet these three families and hear about the quick decisions they had to make in those first moments as the fire hurtled toward them.2021-09-0614 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolIntroducing: Escape From Mammoth Pool (Trailer)The true story of how 242 people—and 16 dogs—survived one of the fastest-moving, most intense wildfires in California history, as the Creek Fire closed in on their campground at Mammoth Pool Reservoir over Labor Day weekend 2020.2021-09-0401 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolPart 1: 'You Could See The Fire, You Could See The Flames'The first episode of KVPR’s new podcast Escape From Mammoth Pool . For 17 years, Karla Carcamo’s family had a Labor Day tradition: they gathered all their cousins, aunts and uncles, grandparents, family friends, and even family members of family friends, and spent the long weekend camping at Mammoth Pool Reservoir in the Sierra Foothills. Alex Tettamanti and her husband Raul Reyes were regulars at Mammoth Pool, too – the off-roading club they belong to with Vicky Castro and her husband Rolando Rosales also visited the reservoir every Labor Day to play with their quads and jet-skis. But all of their plans...2021-09-0314 min

Escape From Mammoth PoolIntroducing: Escape From Mammoth PoolThe true story of how 242 people—and 16 dogs—survived one of the fastest-moving, most intense wildfires in California history, as the Creek Fire closed in on their campground at Mammoth Pool Reservoir over Labor Day weekend 2020. Check out the trailer for Escape From Mammoth Pool , a new limited-run podcast produced by Valley Public Radio for the one-year anniversary of the start of the Creek Fire. Coming soon to KVPR.org, and wherever you get your podcasts.2021-09-0301 min